“So, may we service your room now?” enquires the front office staff member as I check out at the Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl in Doha. Bemused, I reply in the affirmative.
With this, I’m left wondering if it’s the people who define this hotel more than the luxury features, which sounds fanciful given the opulence of my surroundings – from the stunning reception area and lavish rooms to the hotel’s exclusive beach, all set on a private island. But it’s still a claim worth considering.
From check-in to check-out
During my stay, I’m dumbfounded by the hospitality of the people here (which to be honest, is a pretty fair reflection of the Qatari people generally). I mean, who asks if they can service a room you’ve already vacated? Just to be clear, the question is asked out of courtesy and not indecisiveness.
Close to the front desk, there’s a concierge counter and the Lady in Red service, which is apparently a “Kempinski trademark”. It’s more personal and special than just calling it guest relations, I’m told at reception. It seems to work, too, as the service is often being utilised.
I’m offered Arabic coffee in the palatial lobby, a caffeine-free beverage flavoured with spices like cardamon and cloves. Complimentary, it’s served at a traditional-looking ‘coffee cart’ and served with soft date-filled sweets. Zouhair, a softly-spoken young man dressed in local garb, is happy to offer me a cup each time I walk by – and by the end of my stay, I feel like I’d pierced his shy but warm exterior.
From front desk to beachfront
As I visit the hotel’s amazing pool/s and private beach for the first time (and each subsequent time), I’m welcomed by one of the beach’s ‘butlers’.
After check-in, my butler carries a fresh towel and a small esky filled with iced water to the golden sand beach, talking cricket along the way. He then carefully lays my towel on the sun-lounger of my choice while outlining the services the beach area offers – from volleyball to paddle boarding and wakeboarding. He’s even happy to snap a few photos of me.
With its beach chairs, calm water and neighbouring buildings, the beach has a Mediterranean flavour – and is perfect for just flopping. The water is refreshing, clear and even home to a few small fish.
Just behind the beach is the hotel’s incredible pool complex, which offers a mix of deep and kid-friendly pools in a beautiful setting.
In addition to this, my butler takes the time to guide me through the beach/pool area’s impressive locker and dressing rooms, which are highlighted by the Swiss showers.
From beachfront to bedroom
My oversized room is decorated and furnished in a mostly classical Arabic style, with golden hues and light browns (perhaps reflecting the desert landscape), the colours of choice.
As well as a comfy king bed, there’s a sofa, work desk and large TV, all of which I make some use of. There’s also a mini fridge where I can store the almost endless supply of bottled water, a range of Jing tea, and Cino coffee pods.
Between the bedroom and bathroom is a large make-up area and walk-in wardrobe, where there are robes, sewing kits and other grooming products.
Meanwhile, the massive bathroom comprises a separate bathtub, a large shower recess with rain and handheld showers, a shaving mirror, Salvatore Ferragamo toiletries and even a bidet (if you’re into that).
And when I need something, I’m greeted on the phone by name and assisted quickly. Again, there’s that service.
From bedroom to breakfast and beyond
Predictably, there’s no shortage of dining options at the Kempinski – seven restaurants and four bars, to be precise. But unless you’re staying at the hotel for a week (which though amazing, wouldn’t be the case for most guests), chances are you won’t get to them all.
The eatery you’re most likely to hit up will be Cafe Murano, where a variety of breakfasts are served daily – think basic cereals to gravlax Scottish salmon and the Marsa Malaz eggs Benedict.
Afterwards, Murano doubles as a chic cafe, offering handmade chocolates, cakes, coffee and the award-winning Kempinski Afternoon Tea.
Elsewhere, there are the Middle Eastern-inspired Al Sufra and Spanish-styled El Faro eateries, Nozomi for Japanese cuisine, and Toro Toro, a fine dining restaurant conceived by celebrity chef Richard Sandoval.
Another highlight is the Public House, a retro American diner and bar in an awesome beachside location. If you’re here on a Thursday night, you’ll likely see more than a few people on their way to this popular venue.
Away from the food and beverage experiences, there are also tennis and padel courts, a kids club and a business centre – and for those looking for a little (or a lot of) pampering, Spa by Clarins offers 21 treatment rooms, plunge pools, a health club and two fitness group studios.
From hotel to surrounds
While the property isn’t within walking distance of the popular Old Town or West Bay, both areas are easy to access, thanks to Doha’s cheap but excellent taxi services.
Closer than this is the Canal Quartier, which comprises restaurants, cafes, and other retailers along leafy and largely pedestrianised streets. Part Mediterranean-part American, this affluent-looking area has become a favourite among locals and tourists alike and is definitely worth checking out if you’re in the neighbourhood.
And if you’re staying at the Kempinski, there’ll be no shortage of friendly folk to guide you there.
The details:
- Address Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl – Doha, Costa Malaz Bay
- Rooms 281
- Check in/out 12pm/3pm
- Website www.kempinski.com/en/marsa-malaz-kempinski-the-pearl-doha
Read our review of Qatar Airways’ premium offering between Sydney and Doha.
